First-Degree Burn First Aid: Step-by-Step Treatment and When to Seek Care

First-degree (superficial) burns affect only the epidermis: red, painful, dry, no blisters (e.g., mild sunburn, brief scald). Heal in 3–6 days without scarring.

Immediate First Aid

1. Stop exposure: Remove from heat source; cool clothing with water.
2. Cool the burn: Cool (not cold) running water 15–20 minutes. Or clean cool compress. Never ice directly—causes vasoconstriction and tissue damage.
3. Assess: If >3 inches diameter, on face/hands/feet/genitals/joints, or circumferential → seek care.
4. Protect: Apply thin layer petroleum jelly or aloe vera gel. Cover with sterile non-adherent dressing (e.g., Telfa) or clean non-fluffy cloth.
5. Pain control: OTC ibuprofen or acetaminophen per dosing guidelines.
6. Hydrate: Oral fluids to replace insensible losses.

Do NOT

• Break blisters (if any form later—reassess as second-degree)
• Apply butter, oil, toothpaste, egg whites, mustard—myths that trap heat and introduce bacteria
• Use adhesive bandages directly on burn

Seek Medical Attention If

• Burn >2–3 inches (5–7.5 cm) diameter
• Face, hands, feet, genitals, major joints
• Signs of infection: increasing pain, redness, swelling, pus, red streaks, fever
• No improvement in 2–3 days
• Very young, elderly, diabetic, immunocompromised
• Chemical/electrical burn (always evaluate)

Follow-Up

Keep clean, moist, protected. Use sunscreen (SPF 30+) on healed area for 12–18 months (hyperpigmentation risk).